I am about to purchase the 5D mk2 for a FF more manageable, less in your face camera and am not sure whether to get the ''kit'' 24-105 with it.
I do a lot of hiking and always take my camera. The 1D mk3 is just far to big to hike with - hence the 5D mk 2. The 24-105 looks like an excellent lens for outdoor hiking photography - the range will probably be nicer than my 24-70.
Am I just wasting money getting this new general walk around lens?

PS: I am also very interested in the 135mm f2.0 L lens for portraits (formal and candid) and would be interested in your thoughts on that lens too.

Thanks very much. This is my first post here. I'll post a few pics when I have some time with my new 5D mk2.

Redmund, with the kit you have already, you probably do not need another lens. However, I have a 5D2 and the canon 24-105mm and I find it is an excellent all round lens. If I had to take just one lens with me that is the lens I would choose. I did buy it well before I had a 5D2 and, while useful on a half frame, it really suits a full frame camera like the 5D2. As well as being my walkabout lens, I use it for most of my studio shots.

Thanks for the advice Dave and Chris
I think I'll take the plunge and get the 24-105 -- I'm sure it will become my best walk about lens -- along with my 17-40.
Do you have any experience with the 135mm f2?
Redmund